filler · easy · mid
Aster
Symphyotrichum · aka Michaelmas daisy, New England aster
The aster is one of the last true field flowers of the year — dozens of small daisy-like florets on branching stems, opening in September and October when little else is fresh. Purple and lavender are the classic autumn palette. Splits into many usable side stems, giving strong coverage per stem.
At a glance
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | North America, Europe; commercially grown Netherlands, Colombia |
| Peak season | September, October, November |
| Availability | August to November |
| Stem length | 40–80 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | white, pink, purple, lavender, blue, burgundy |
| Price tier | mid |
Conditioning
Cut on a diagonal, strip lower foliage. Fresh water.
Care in the vase
- •Dozens of small daisy-like florets per branching stem
- •Refresh water every 3 days — many stems foul the water
- •One of the few reliable autumn cut flowers
- •September blooms are the peak
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismpatience, elegance, love
Occasionsautumn events, everyday, garden-style arrangements
Substituteschrysanthemum, chamomile
autumnfillergarden-style
